Types of Roman Coins to Know for Intro to Roman Archaeology

Roman coins were essential to the economy and culture of the empire. Each type, from the gold aureus to the copper quadrans, reveals insights into wealth, trade, and political propaganda, making them vital for understanding Roman society and its archaeological legacy.

1. Aureus (gold)

   • The primary gold coin of the Roman Empire, introduced in the late Republic.
   • Typically weighed about 8 grams and was valued at 25 denarii.
   • Used primarily for large transactions and savings, symbolizing wealth and power.
   • Featured portraits of emperors and deities, reflecting political propaganda.

2. Denarius (silver)

   • The standard silver coin of Rome, first minted around 211 BC.
   • Weighed approximately 4 grams and was the backbone of Roman currency.
   • Widely used in everyday transactions and trade across the empire.
   • Often depicted important figures and events, serving as a historical record.

3. Sestertius (brass)

   • A large brass coin, originally worth one-quarter of a denarius.
   • Commonly used in the Roman economy for larger purchases and public payments.
   • Featured elaborate designs, often commemorating significant events or emperors.
   • Became a popular medium for propaganda during the Imperial period.

4. As (copper)

   • The basic unit of Roman currency, initially made of bronze and later copper.
   • Valued at one-twelfth of a denarius, making it accessible for everyday use.
   • Often used for small transactions and local trade.
   • Featured simple designs, typically with images of deities or symbols of Rome.

5. Dupondius (brass)

   • A coin worth two asses, made of brass and used in the Roman economy.
   • Introduced in the early Imperial period, it served as a mid-value coin.
   • Commonly used for everyday transactions and public payments.
   • Often depicted emperors and significant events, similar to the sestertius.

6. Quadrans (copper)

   • The smallest denomination of Roman currency, worth one-fourth of an as.
   • Primarily used for very small transactions and everyday purchases.
   • Often featured simple designs, making it less significant in terms of propaganda.
   • Played a role in the daily lives of common citizens in the Roman economy.

7. Antoninianus (silver-washed copper)

   • Introduced in the 3rd century AD, initially valued at two denarii.
   • Made of a base metal and coated with a thin layer of silver, leading to its devaluation.
   • Became a common coin during the Crisis of the Third Century, reflecting economic instability.
   • Featured elaborate designs, often portraying emperors and deities.

8. Solidus (gold)

   • A gold coin introduced by Constantine I in the 4th century AD.
   • Weighed about 4.5 grams and became the standard for Byzantine currency.
   • Known for its stability and reliability, it replaced the aureus in circulation.
   • Featured intricate designs, often depicting Christ or the emperor, symbolizing authority.

9. Siliqua (silver)

   • A small silver coin, originally valued at one-twenty-fourth of a solidus.
   • Used primarily in the late Roman Empire and early Byzantine period.
   • Often featured images of emperors and Christian symbols, reflecting the changing society.
   • Played a role in trade and commerce, especially in the provinces.

10. Follis (bronze)

    • A large bronze coin introduced in the late 3rd century AD.
    • Initially valued at 1/2 of a siliqua, it became a common currency in the empire.
    • Often used for everyday transactions and public payments.
    • Featured various designs, including emperors and allegorical figures, reflecting the era's values.